1. Overview of St. Maarten and St. Martin
The island of St. Maarten and St. Martin is the smallest territory in the world shared by two sovereign states. Covering just 37 square miles, it is divided between the Dutch side, known as St. Maarten, and the French side, St. Martin. Visitors can easily traverse between the two regions. Major cruise ships typically dock at Philipsburg in St. Maarten, while smaller vessels may head to Marigot, the capital of St. Martin. The island is famous for its shopping, gambling, and stunning beaches, offering ample activities for those opting out of shore excursions.
2. Exciting Shore Excursions
Many cruise excursions on the island focus on water activities, historical exploration, or island tours. Below are some captivating experiences that you might enjoy:
2.1 St. Maarten Archaeological Expedition
This expedition is a delight for history enthusiasts, tracing the history of the island from when the Arawak Indians arrived from South America over 2,500 years ago. The tour visits an archaeological site near Hope Estate, exploring Arawak settlements dating back over 1,500 years. Lastly, participants can enjoy a self-guided tour of the Arawak Museum, making this excursion both educational and engaging.
2.2 St. Maarten/St. Martin Island Tour
This bus tour offers a scenic drive around St. Maarten/St. Martin, with stops for photographs. Participants enjoy about an hour of free time in Marigot, the French capital, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors keen to experience the island’s diverse cultures and indulge in local shopping.
2.3 See and Sea Island Tour
Focusing on the French side of St. Martin, this tour transports guests to Grand Case, the second-largest town. Participants board a semi-submarine for a 45-minute narrated journey that showcases the coral reefs near this picturesque fishing village. The semi-submarine provides a unique underwater experience at just five feet, followed by a visit to the shops, markets, and cafes in Marigot to soak up the French atmosphere.
2.4 Golden Eagle Catamaran and Snorkeling
Guests set sail on the 76-foot Golden Eagle catamaran, taking up to 86 passengers to Tintamarre, a nearby island. Sailors can relish home-baked pastries and Champagne while enjoying the thrill of sailing. The catamaran anchors on a beautiful sandy beach, where snorkeling and exploring nearby caverns are popular activities. The return journey features snacks, music, and an open bar for a truly delightful experience.
2.5 Discover SCUBA
This introductory SCUBA course requires no prior experience. Within a few hours, participants will gain the skills to breathe underwater! The resort course includes instruction and a shallow dive in a sheltered cove, perfect for beginners eager to explore the underwater world.
2.6 Certified SCUBA (Two Tank)
Divers with certification can join a group for a double tank dive, allowing exploration of coral reefs and shipwrecks at depths between 35 and 85 feet, making it an exciting endeavor for experienced divers.
2.7 “America’s Cup” Regatta
This thrilling experience splits participants into two groups: “sailors” aboard the s/v Stars and Stripes and s/v True North. These multi-million dollar sailboats were designed for the America’s Cup in 1987. Teams race on a shortened America’s Cup course under the guidance of experienced crew members, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience.
